Federal Government to accelerate the formalisation of artisan miners

The Federal Government is to accelerate the formalisation of artisan miners for sustainable mineral resources and diversification of the nation’s economy through solid minerals and agricultural sectors.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi stated this in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital at the opening of the 52nd annual international conference and exhibition of the Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society.

According to him, eighty percent of mining activities is being carried out by artisan miners across the country.

Dr Fayemi said the Federal Government is focusing more attention on non oil sector because of crude oil volatility to international oil market and as an exhaustive asset.

The Minister disclosed that the government had published the revocation of dormant mineral licenses to clean up the mining sector and ensure the usage of Federal Government’s licenses.

Roadmap Committee

He said his Ministry had inaugurated a Roadmap Committee for Mining exploration in Nigeria with a view to unlocking potentials in solid mineral sector.

Dr Fayemi also called for synergy among the academics, industries and governments in researching and investing in the solid mineral sector for socio-economic turnaround of the country.

In his address, the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, promised that the National Assembly would continue to enact necessary legislations that would open up opportunities in the solid mineral sector.

Dr Saraki who was represented by his Senior Legislative Aide, Alhaji Saka Onimago said the Conference and its theme are apt in view of the current economic realities.

Earlier, the National President, Nigeria Mining and Geosciences Society, the President of the society, Professor Olugbenga Okunlola had called for strong political will in exploring opportunities in the solid minerals sector.